Lawsonia inermis, commonly known as henna, is a tropical shrub or small tree native to northern Africa, Asia, and northern Australia. The plant is widely cultivated for its leaves, which contain the natural dye lawsone used for temporary body art, hair coloring, and textile dyeing.
Before sowing
Leaching, chilling, priming, GA3 and KNO3 co-application reduce dormancy
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Requires continuous warmth above 70°F (21°C) for optimal growth and germination. Use heating mat to encourage germination. Optimal germination occurs at 30°C (86°F). Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Full sun is essential. Plant in spring when temperatures are consistently warm.
Sources: Sheffield's Seed Company, Terra Mater Gardens, Strictly Medicinal Seeds, Seed Vine, ICAR Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Parihar et al. 2016 (Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences)
